Chapter 606

“Do you understand what I’ve said?” Jonathan asked, just in case.

Lucian furrowed his brows. Despite everything he’d heard, he remained as confused as before. Given what had transpired, he couldn’t afford another mistake. Therefore, however embarrassing, he asked, “Tell me more simply what I should say for her to understand me.”

Jonathan was speechless. Hadn’t he made it clear enough? “‘I love you,’” he finally said.

Jonathan’s expression was utterly serious as he stared at his friend. A deathly silence followed his words. Even Lucian, witnessing Jonathan’s earnestness, was stunned for a few seconds.

When Jonathan saw understanding in Lucian’s eyes, he softened his expression and continued his coaching. “Do you know what to say now?”

Lucian, regaining his composure, nodded.

“I know you’ve never courted a woman, so some difficulty is understandable,” Jonathan said solemnly. “But pursuing a lady is like closing a business deal. Don’t beat around the bush. Let her know your intentions clearly. Being secretive never wins deals.”

Jonathan patted Lucian’s shoulder. “If you like her, admit it instead of using Essie as an excuse. If you make this a habit, Dr. Jarvis, knowing her character, will grow wary of the little girl. Then neither of you will be able to get close to her, and you’d deserve it. But what about Essie? She’s innocent in all this!”

The instant Lucian heard that last sentence, his brows furrowed, and the temperature around him seemed to drop. Feeling a chill, Jonathan, realizing the gravity of his words, tried to laugh it off. “Just an example. You know what I mean.”

Lucian remained silent. Jonathan’s words had hit the mark. Roxanne was already avoiding Estella because of him, and Estella was angry for the same reason. Even then, Lucian hadn’t learned, because Roxanne would keep her distance unless he used Estella as an excuse. He was truly out of ideas.

Jonathan subconsciously sipped his wine, sneaking a glance at Lucian. Seeing his friend’s sullen expression, Jonathan assumed he’d misspoken and regretted it. However, Lucian’s voice suddenly rang out, carrying a hint of suppressed anger.

“What else can I do when she keeps avoiding me?”

When Jonathan sensed Lucian’s anger had subsided, he breathed a sigh of relief. “You just have to be patient. You did hurt her six years ago, so her avoidance isn’t surprising. If you truly want to change her mind, drop that superior attitude. Humble yourself and try to gain her sympathy.”

Lucian glanced at Jonathan, anger flashing in his eyes, as if questioning his audacity in suggesting he play the victim.

Understanding Lucian’s thoughts, Jonathan explained, “After years as a doctor, Dr. Jarvis is certainly sympathetic. And given how intimidating you are, playing the victim might just melt her heart.”